AS the Covid-19 situation has been gradually improving after three years, visitors today flocked to the Kek Lok Si Temple in Air Itam to witness the lighting-up ceremony for the Chinese New Year celebration on Jan 22.
The iconic temple was transformed into a fairyland of lights to usher in the Year of the Rabbit this Sunday.
More than 10,000 LED lights and traditional Chinese lanterns illuminated the monastery and up to the Kuan Yin statue and pavillion.
The lights were turned on immediately after a 20-minute prayer session conducted by the temple’s former committee chairman Datuk Seri Venerable Seck Jit Heng.
This was followed by a five-minute fireworks display at the Kek Lok Si Temple.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present, said he was glad to be invited to attend the annual lighting ceremony.
“This is a grand event that must be attended by everyone yearly.
“The festive atmosphere can be felt here as well as in other parts of Air Itam. It is a lively place, especially during the Chinese New Year.
“In fact, the state has been committed to implementing road projects for the betterment of the people. For instance, the road users can travel conveniently once the Air Itam – Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu expressway is completed,” said Chow during the event.
Chow said Air Itam can be developed to become a vibrant town in the future, especially with the various places of attractions in the neighbourhood.
On a separate note, Chow said the state would be supportive of a plan to build a Kek Lok Si Charitable Hospital in Paya Terubong.
“We will support the plan to build a 400-bed hospital. I have received a proposal from Kek Lok Si Temple last month and we will help to convert the land for such a purpose,” he said.
Jit Heng had earlier in his speech said he hoped the state would support the initiative, which would be completed in two to three years.
Among those present were Thailand consul general in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, state Social Development and Non-Religious Committee chairman Chong Eng, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim and former Bukit Bendera MP Wong Hon Wai.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Siew Chia En